Huai Chomphu-Pha Thewada Reservoir

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: Open throughout the day; trekking and abseiling activities should be arranged in advance with local authorities

 

Huai Chomphu-Pha Thewada Reservoir in Phayao Province is a nature-based destination that combines a quiet reservoir, mountain scenery, protected forest, waterfalls, caves, seasonal sunflower fields, trekking routes, and adventure activities in one area. Located in San Khong Subdistrict, Dok Kham Tai District, the site is connected with Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary and the local administration of San Khong Subdistrict. It is suitable for travelers who want more than a simple viewpoint, as the area offers both peaceful scenery and challenging outdoor experiences.

 

The main appeal of Huai Chomphu-Pha Thewada Reservoir is its variety. Visitors can enjoy the calm waterside atmosphere, photograph seasonal sunflower fields, explore waterfall areas, join trekking routes, or arrange an abseiling experience at Pha Thewada. The destination is closely linked with the San Khong community, which has developed the area around agricultural tourism, eco-tourism, and local nature-based travel. This makes the reservoir a useful starting point for travelers who want to experience the rural and mountainous side of Phayao.

 

The reservoir is about 12 kilometers from Dok Kham Tai District. Travelers use the Dok Kham Tai-Chun route along Highway 1021, then turn toward Ban Cham Kai and continue through rice fields and local communities before reaching the reservoir area and the San Khong Community Agro-Tourism Visitor Service Center. The journey itself is part of the experience, especially during the cool season when the sunflower fields around San Khong become bright yellow and the mountains form a beautiful natural backdrop.

 

The sunflower fields of San Khong are one of the most photogenic seasonal attractions in the area. From around November to February, the fields become lively with blooming sunflowers, drawing visitors who come to take photographs and enjoy the cool-season atmosphere. The combination of yellow flowers, rural fields, and surrounding mountains gives the area a warm and memorable character. For visitors who prefer light travel, the sunflower fields and reservoir area are ideal without needing to take part in more difficult trekking activities.

 

For nature and adventure travelers, Pha Thewada is the highlight. The cliff was formerly known as Pha King Pa Faet before becoming widely known as Pha Thewada. The surrounding area includes caves, waterfalls, streams, and forest routes. Trekking to the abseiling point requires preparation because visitors must first travel by four-wheel-drive vehicle to the end of the road and then continue on foot for about 3 kilometers. The route is physically challenging and usually takes around 3 hours, making it more suitable for travelers who are ready for a real outdoor adventure.

 

Abseiling at Pha Thewada is arranged at heights of about 25 meters, 50 meters, and 110 meters. Essential equipment such as gloves, helmets, and locking devices is provided when the activity is organized by local staff. Experienced officers guide visitors and supervise safety. Because the activity takes place in a forest and cliff environment, travelers should never attempt it independently. Advance coordination with San Khong Subdistrict Administrative Organization or Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary is necessary for safety and proper access.

 

The trekking route also includes natural points of interest such as Tham Fon Saen Ha, a cave where water flows down like rain, creating a refreshing and unusual atmosphere. During the late rainy season and early cool season, Huai Chomphu Waterfall becomes especially beautiful, and the third level known as Tat Hua Chang is a notable natural spot. The forest, waterfall, cave, and stream environment makes the route rewarding for those who enjoy deeper contact with nature.

 

The area is also ecologically important because it is connected with Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected forest landscape in Phayao. This means visitors should travel with care and respect. The forest supports watershed functions, wildlife habitats, and local biodiversity. Travelers should avoid littering, disturbing wildlife, making loud noises, leaving marked routes, or entering restricted areas without permission. Responsible behavior helps protect both visitor safety and the natural condition of the area.

 

Visitors who do not plan to trek can still enjoy the reservoir area, sunflower fields, and community landscape. The reservoir offers a quiet place to rest, take photographs, and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. During the sunflower season, the area is suitable for families, couples, photographers, and groups of friends. The destination can be enjoyed in different ways depending on travel style, time, season, and physical readiness.

 

The best time to visit Huai Chomphu-Pha Thewada Reservoir is during the cool season, especially from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the sunflower fields are at their most attractive. The late rainy season and early cool season are suitable for waterfall scenery and lush forest views. During the rainy season, the landscape is greener, but trekking routes may become slippery and more difficult. Travelers should check conditions before planning forest activities.

 

Getting There is most convenient by private car or motorcycle. From Dok Kham Tai District, take Highway 1021 on the Dok Kham Tai-Chun route, turn toward Ban Cham Kai, continue through rice fields for about 6 kilometers to the Ban Cham Kai intersection, then go straight for another 4 kilometers to the reservoir area and the community agro-tourism service point. The distance from Dok Kham Tai is about 12 kilometers. From Mueang Phayao, the journey usually takes around 40–60 minutes depending on the starting point and road conditions.

 

In summary, Huai Chomphu-Pha Thewada Reservoir is one of the most distinctive natural destinations in Dok Kham Tai District. It brings together water scenery, rural fields, seasonal sunflowers, waterfalls, caves, protected forest, trekking, and abseiling in one area. For travelers who appreciate local nature, community-based tourism, and responsible adventure, this destination offers a memorable experience in a quieter corner of Phayao Province.

 

 

A: It is located in San Khong Subdistrict, Dok Kham Tai District, Phayao Province, in an area connected with Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

A: Visitors can enjoy reservoir views, trekking, waterfalls, caves, seasonal sunflower fields, and abseiling at Pha Thewada with prior arrangement.

 

A: The sunflower fields are generally at their best during the cool season, around November to February.

 

A: Visitors should contact San Khong Subdistrict Administrative Organization or Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary in advance, prepare proper trekking shoes, and follow staff instructions strictly.

 

A: The abseiling points are about 25 meters, 50 meters, and 110 meters high, and the activity must be supervised by experienced staff.

 

A: From Dok Kham Tai, take Highway 1021 toward Chun, turn toward Ban Cham Kai, pass through rice fields and community roads, and continue to the reservoir area about 12 km from Dok Kham Tai.

 

A: Travelers can combine the reservoir with Pha Thewada, Tham Fon Saen Ha, Huai Chomphu Waterfall, Tat Hua Chang, San Khong Sunflower Fields, Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kwan Phayao.